Unwanted survey calls can be a significant nuisance, disrupting your daily routine and compromising your privacy. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to minimize these interruptions.
What Are Survey Calls and Why Are They a Concern?
Survey calls are unsolicited phone calls from organizations seeking your opinions on various topics. While some are legitimate, many are automated robocalls designed to gather data for marketing purposes. These calls can be intrusive and, in some cases, may lead to scams or unwanted solicitations.
How Can I Block Survey Calls on My Smartphone?
For iPhone Users:
- Silence Unknown Callers: This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. To enable it:
- Go to Settings > Phone.
- Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers.
- Third-Party Apps: Applications like Truecaller can identify and block spam calls. After downloading from the App Store, grant the necessary permissions to allow call blocking.
For Android Users:
- Built-in Spam Protection: Many Android phones offer native features to filter spam calls. To activate:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu and select Settings.
- Navigate to Caller ID & Spam and enable See caller and spam ID and Filter spam calls.
- Third-Party Apps: Apps like RoboKiller provide advanced spam call blocking. After installation, follow the setup instructions to integrate with your phone's call system.
Are There Carrier Services to Help Block Survey Calls?
Yes, major U.S. carriers offer services to help block unwanted calls:
-
AT&T: ActiveArmor provides spam call blocking and fraud detection. You can download the app from the App Store or Google Play.
-
Verizon: Call Filter screens and blocks spam calls. Enable it through the My Verizon app or website.
-
T-Mobile: Scam Shield offers Scam Block to prevent scam calls. Activate it by dialing #662# from your T-Mobile phone.
How Effective Are These Methods in Reducing Survey Calls?
Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce the number of unwanted survey calls. However, no method is entirely foolproof. Combining multiple approaches—such as using built-in features, third-party apps, and carrier services—can enhance your protection against these calls.
What Should I Do If I Receive an Unwanted Survey Call?
-
Do Not Engage: Avoid answering or interacting with the call. Engaging can confirm your number is active, leading to more spam calls.
-
Report the Call: You can report unwanted calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through their website. This helps authorities track and address spam call patterns.
Are There Additional Steps to Protect Myself from Unwanted Calls?
-
Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: Adding your number to this registry can reduce telemarketing calls. However, it may not stop all unwanted calls, especially from scammers.
-
Be Cautious with Your Number: Limit sharing your phone number online and with unfamiliar entities to reduce the risk of receiving unsolicited calls.
By proactively implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the frequency of unwanted survey calls and protect your privacy.
(consumer.ftc.gov)
